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Fertility in the workplace

Patient support charity Fertility Network UK have launched a new initiative this week called Fertility in the Workplace to try to raise awareness of how difficult it can be for people going through treatment to deal with work.

FNUK chief executive Aileen Feeney said: ‘Fertility treatment is on the increase with approaching 68,000 treatment cycles carried out every year in the UK and 1 in 6 couples (3.5 million people) affected, yet the majority of employers do not have a workplace policy providing the vital support employees going through fertility treatment need. Research shows having a supportive fertility in the workplace policy is good for business and employees – levels of distress associated with fertility treatment are reduced and employees are more likely to be productive and remain in work – that’s why Fertility Network is launching Fertility in the Workplace – an initiative designed to help employers support employees facing fertility challenges.‘Careers need not be damaged or jobs lost if there is an appropriate fertility in the workplace policy identifying the specific support available for couples or individuals having IVF. Introducing Fertility Network’s Fertility in the Workplace initiative ensures employees are treated fairly and empathetically and feel fully supported. The initiative provides a framework for employers to implement a fertility in the workplace policy and, crucially, provides guidance for both employees and for employers, who may have limited understanding of the impact of infertility and what fertility treatment is really like.’

Fertility Network’s research highlights just 26 per cent of people having IVF reported their workplace had some policy relating to treatment (58 per cent said their employer did not, and 19 per cent were not sure). The lack of a fertility workplace policy was associated with even higher levels of distress.

‘Companies are failing already distressed employees if they do not provide a supportive fertility in the workplace policy,’ said Ms Feeney. ‘Fertility Network’s survey underlines just how much the lack of workplace support affects people undergoing IVF. 50 per cent of respondents worried treatment would affect their career prospects; 35 per cent felt their career was damaged.’

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Fertility Matters is written by Kate Brian who has been through fertility problems, tests and IVF treatment herself. The website gives reliable information, advice and support to anyone who is having difficulties getting pregnant. Read more